RESUMEN
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of volunteer nurses after the Haiti earthquake, January 2010. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study design using in-depth interviews focuses on experiences of 12 American nurse volunteers who served in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. METHODS: Semistructured interviews were conducted in person or by phone using an interview guide. The interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Data analysis was assisted using NVivo9. FINDINGS: Six themes emerged: initial shock, relentless work, substituting and making do, questioning, systems building, and transitioning back. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Nurses who are interested in volunteering after a disaster can expect the experience to be overwhelming and will require them to exercise great flexibility, creativity, and strength in their nursing practice. Nurse volunteers can expect a rewarding experience that will likely change their perspective on nursing work and personal life.
Asunto(s)
Terremotos , Voluntarios/psicología , Adaptación Psicológica , Haití , HumanosRESUMEN
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of nurse volunteers caring for children after the Haiti earthquake in January 2010. DESIGN AND METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study using in-depth interviews focuses on the experiences of 10 nurse volunteers. RESULTS: Four themes emerged: hope amid devastation, professional compromises, universality of children, and emotional impact on nurses. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Nurses who volunteer after natural disasters have rich personal and professional experiences, including extremes of sadness and joy. Nurse volunteers will likely need to care for children. Nurses and humanitarian agencies should prepare for the unique challenges of pediatric care.